“See that it is done. As soon as we have the shawl, we will be over.” Alex’s voice held a note of authority that the doctor did not disagree with. In fact, he was doing a remarkable job of controlling the situation from the couch.
“Do men always do what you say?” She quirked an eyebrow.
“Mostly.” He gave her a lopsided grin that made the butterflies dance in her stomach.
“Should we marry, will I be expected to do as you command?”
He chuckled. “I am not your father. While I would always care for you, you may find that a wife holds a great deal more authority than a daughter.” He lifted one of her hands and kissed it. “Especially if you continue to look at me like that.”
“Like what?” she asked in confusion.
He gave his head a shake. “Never mind.” He kissed her hand again and Rose closed her eyes, delighting in the sensation of his touch. “You can’t begin to imagine the power you could have over me.”
“Mmmmm,” she purred as his lips moved across her skin. “You’re distracting me.”
He sighed. “You’re right. Let’s get you up and test those legs so that we can go see your father.”
Ten minutes later, Rose moved into the study, leaning heavily on Alex’s arm, where her father had been carried. His color was grey but his eyes were open and assessing. Rose straightened but Alex squeezed her hand that rested in the crook of his arm. It pulled her in closer again. He settled her next to the elder Wentworth. Her father spoke, “Would you give us a few moments, Your Grace?”
“Of course.” Alex nodded and then retreated for the door. When he reached the threshold, he turned to give her one more assessing glance. Eyes piercing into hers, he stopped, seeming to search her face. Every line was taut and his chocolate brown orbs seemed to beg her, though Rose didn’t know for what. “I’ll be right outside if you need me.”
Giving a nod, she turned to her father. His voice was soft but firm. “He’s in love with you.”
“How can that be? We’ve barely known each other a…”
“I think you’re in love with him too.”
“Papa.” She took a deep breath. “You’re just saying that because you want me to marry him.”
“I’m not, Rose. I heard you in the carriage.”
Sucking in her breath, her cheeks flamed with color. “What did you hear?”
“How hurt you were by his deception.”
Relief trickled down her spine. “What does that have to do with it?”
“You wouldn’t be that hurt if you didn’t care.” He reached for her hand.
“I always care. Falling in love doesn’t seem to be my problem. As you have often reminded me, it’s staying in love that I struggle to achieve.”
He gave a small laugh at her words but then winced and Rose squeezed his hand. “Papa, let’s talk later. You need your rest.”
“This is important, Rose, we’ll talk now. You’re just like your mother. She flitted from beau to beau like a beautiful butterfly. I could nary look away. But like you, her affection never lasted for long, I feared even if I caught her attention, I wouldn’t keep it. But when her blue eyes met mine, I realized I would risk my heart and take the chance. We were in love till the day she died.”
Tears filled Rose’s eyes. It brought her more comfort then she could express to hear this story about her parents. “Really, Papa?”
“I’ve been mistaken in holding on so tight to you, Rose. My fear was that you would marry one of those handsome beaus before you had the opportunity to find your one true love. But in my attempt to help you, I fear I have made them more enticing.”
“It’s not your fault. I’ve been looking for someone to rescue me from the pain of losing Mama. I thought if a hero carried me away, I would forget the past. It’s silly, I know.” Rose bowed her ahead, ashamed of her own words.
“It isn’t, Rose. I pinned all my attention on you, rather than focusing on my own suffering.” He shuddered in pain and Rose reached for his hand. “But now we must focus on the future. You know that the estate is entailed. If I die now, it goes to your second cousin Eugene. He would become your guardian as well. I see the way Eugene looks at you. He will marry you himself rather than allow you to marry a man of your choosing.”
“Marry Eugene.” The words left a bitter taste in her mouth. He was a sniveling, annoying man who had teased her incessantly as children. When they had grown older, he had switched from hair pulling and name calling to constantly berating her on her decorum and personage.
“I know you have only known Alex for a very short time, but I fear we may need to set the wheel in motion for your own safety. Tell me, daughter, that you will consent.”
Rose sat back. If her father passed, Carl could make another attempt. Or, she may be forced to marry Eugene. She knew without a doubt that she would prefer marriage to Alex rather than any other man but what if she let him down? “I don’t know―“
“Rose there isn’t time for that. You have to decide now.”
She took a deep breath. “All right. I’ll marry Alex.”
“Good girl, we’ll procure the license in the morning, when Bishop Dudson visits. You’ll marry in two weeks’ time.” He patted her hand. “You should get some rest, Rose, as will I. May providence allow me to see my daughter marry.”
Rose stood and walked towards the door. Her legs wobbled underneath her but she tried to keep her head high. As she stepped out, Alex was there waiting and she sighed with relief. His strength would bolster her. Holding out his arms, she stepped into them without hesitation. “We’re to marry in two weeks’ time,” she blurted out as she buried her face in his shoulder.
“I would feel better if you seemed a bit more excited.” But even as he spoke the words, he wrapped his arms around her.
“Marriage is forever and we’ve only known each other a short time. I’m just…” She had already told him her fears and she didn’t want to repeat them for fear he would lose confidence in her.
“I understand. What you need is some sleep. All of this will seem more reasonable in the morning.”
She nodded against him but made no move to leave her spot nestled into his chest. Truth be told, she felt most secure when in his arms. It filled her with hope. “In just a moment. I find your chest to be a most comfortable pillow.”
Her pillow rumbled with laughter and she closed her eyes, relaxing further. “Soon enough, you can fall asleep every night with your head on my chest.”
“Mmmm, that does sound delightful.”
“But for now, you must sleep in your own bed. I’ll walk you to the landing.” He gently pushed her off his chest and towards the entryway of the house.
She gave an inarticulate grumble of dissatisfaction but complied with his wishes. His arm wrapped around her waist supporting her weight. He was right, she desperately needed some sleep. “I’m so glad you’re here, Alex.”
“As am I,” he whispered as he gave her a squeeze.
They reached the bottom of the stairs and Alex wrapped his other arm around her, partially carrying her up the stairs. His hard muscles moved easily with her weight and she wished that they didn’t have to part. Nothing would provide her more comfort than to stay pressed against him. But it wasn’t done. Reaching the top of the landing, his lips brushed against her hair. “Get some sleep. I’ll keep watch over your father.”
She dragged herself to her room, where her maid helped her undress. Then, she laid down on her bed and fell fast asleep.
***
Alex watched her walk down the hall. Even with her head hanging in exhaustion, she was more beautiful than he had ever imagined. Her hair was half hanging down her back and his fingers itched to finish the job and let loose her mass of golden locks.
Closing his eyes, he relived the moment her gaze had met his, desire so evident in the blue depths of her stare. Of all the women, how could it be Rose who really wanted him? His chest filled with a joy that almost pained him. She was like an
answer to a prayer.
He knew with absolute certainty that he would do whatever it took to keep her safe and by his side. A niggle of doubt crept into his mind. She wanted him now but what if she didn’t later? What would he do if she turned her attention to some other man after they married? Pushing that thought aside, he began walking back to the study. That was a problem for another day. First, he needed to know who had attacked.
In the morning, he would ask her if she had any insight into the attempted kidnapping but for now, she needed some rest. As soon as he knew her father was stable, he would begin an investigation. His military training in espionage was far more extensive then he had let on to Rose and he would use those skills now, to find out who was endangering his future bride.
He rang for the butler to dispense some orders. Rose’s guards would have to be outside her window and door. Tomorrow, he would need to contact Scotland Yard to learn what he could about Carl Lundberg. He would also reach out to some of the other officers to see if anyone had heard of him. If he was bold enough to try to take Rose from her father, he most likely had a record of misbehavior.
He peeked into the study where the earl was resting, but all looked well. Tomorrow they would move the man to his room if his condition allowed.
He stretched himself out on a settee in the library. He couldn’t be bothered with bed. Hunting spies had trained him to operate on very little sleep. A short nap was all he would allow himself before he began his work.
Carl Lundberg was about to understand what it meant to be a true war hero and it didn’t involve impressing young women with made up stories. If that man had tried to hurt Rose, Alex would bring down the full retribution that was at his disposal. As a duke, it was ample.
TAMING A DUKE’S WILD ROSE
CHAPTER SEVEN
Rose woke early and got out of bed, despite the lack of sleep. Nightmares had plagued her about her father’s condition, and it seemed prudent to simply get up and see how he fared.
Scrubbing her face with vigor, Rose attempted to wash away the tiredness. She dressed in a simple gown of pale blue muslin with an empire waist and pulled her hair into a lose coif.
A strong cup of tea and some biscuits would put a little vigor back in her step but she just wanted to peek in at her father.
On her way to the study, the distinct sound of male voices caught her attention in the library.
“Thank you, my friend, for coming on such short notice.”
“Anything for you, Alex, you know that. Our country would be in dire straits without your service and sacrifice.”
Rose caught her breath. Her feelings were developing for Alex but he knew she held affection for soldiers and yet he had downplayed his part in the war, apparently, why? Was this more of his lies?
“You exaggerate, my friend. As I told Rose, I never cared for war. I’ve only done my duty―“
“It is the men who do not enjoy it but rise to the task that are truly great. You bear that scar because you were willing to give everything to stop a spy from giving secrets that would have meant the lives of thousands.”
“You’ll have to share that with my fiancée at some point. She would be happy to hear it.”
Rose smiled. She was happy to hear it, and she was even happier to know he hadn’t been intentionally deceitful, simply humble about his contributions. The more she knew about her duke, the greater her affection grew.
“I will, indeed. Though I don’t know why you don’t share it yourself.”
“I suppose I never thought of it as that much of an accomplishment and, what’s more, I want Rose’s affections to be for me and not for what I’ve done on the battlefield. Does that make sense, Chris?”
She heard the slapping sound as one man thumped the other. Like one had slapped the other on the back. “I do my friend, though I must admit, I am most eager to meet this lady that you seem to hold so much esteem for.”
“Perhaps today. Though time is of the essence. You’ve read my note. Have you heard of Carl Lundberg?”
“I have not, but as soon as I return to my regiment, I will start making inquiries.” The other man’s voice held a note of determination.
“Thank you, Chris. I don’t even know for sure that it was him who attacked us so be delicate.”
Rose took a deep breath. To walk in now would be to admit to eavesdropping but she knew that it was Carl and it seemed like important information. Raising her hand, she knocked on the door.
“Yes,” Alex’s voice called out sharply.
“Your Grace, it’s me,” she called from the other side of the door.
“It’s your home, you don’t need to knock. Come in.” His voice was still terse. Was he angry at her for listening?
She pushed open the door and entered the room. Alex stood behind the desk, still wearing his evening clothes from the night before. Despite their rumpled appearance, he looked handsome as ever. Next to him stood a young captain. At one time, he would have sent Rose into fits. Tall and handsome in his uniform, he was embodiment of her fantasy, with blonde hair and flashing blue eyes. But this morning, she only had eyes for her real life hero. The man could both save her and show her affection and compassion. “I apologize for interrupting, Your Grace.” She gave a small courtesy, her eyes watching his every move for his reaction.
“There is no need to stand on ceremony. I am Alex to you, I will always be so. This is my friend, Captain Christopher Masters. Chris, Lady Rose Wentworth.”
“Pleased to make your acquaintance.” She curtseyed as her eyes swung briefly to the other man. “It’s just…I overheard you say that you weren’t certain it was Carl but I heard his voice. I know you told me to sing, but it was him. I am positive beyond a shadow of doubt.” She paused, assessing him again. Every line of his body was tense and a frown marked his brow. He was angry with her.
“Again, forgive my intrusion.” She turned to leave.
“Rose, wait.” She pivoted back towards him, her eyes scanning his face for a reaction. He stepped around the desk and walked over to her. His hand gently touched her arm even as his body blocked the view of the room. “Let me walk you to the study.”
“There’s no need. You’re busy and I―“ She stopped as his hand came to her waist and he turned her towards the door.
“I insist.” His body was still marked with tension, his words clipped.
As soon as they had walked through the door, she turned to him. “Is everything all right?” Her eyes searched his face again.
He seemed to relax once they were in the hallway and his other hand found her middle, pulling her against him. “Fine.” His lips captured hers in a brief kiss but it filled her with heat and made her came alive in a way tea and biscuits never could. As he picked up his head, she gave him a glowing smile. Raising her hand, she touched his cheek. “How do you fare?”
He returned her smile. “Never better. It’s you that concerns me.”
“But you seemed so tense, I―“ Her uncertainty crept into her voice.
“Don’t give it another thought. Go check on your father.” He brushed his lips against her forehead. “If you need anything today, come find me.”
She inhaled his masculine scent. Biting her lip, she laced her arms around his neck. “Will I see you later?”
His lips pressed against her ear. “Of course,” he whispered.
“Have you checked on my father, how does he fare?”
“Better than I expected.”
“I’m so glad to hear it. Thank you.” She relaxed against him but he seemed only to tense further. His motives were still a mystery to her. “Join us when the captain is gone?”
He gave a single nod, and then touching her hair, he made his way back into the library. Rose watched him walk away but something pulled at her insides. There was something amiss.
***
Alex tried not to scowl as he walked back into the library. He was acting like a woman. He would have liked to turn over a few chairs to vent
his rage but it wasn’t his house and he didn’t normally give in to fits of temper.
“May I ask what just happened there?” Chris raised his eyebrows.
“You may not.” Alex stomped back over to the desk.
“Because if I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were jealous,” Chris prodded.
“Not bloody likely,” he snarled.
“You know women have been known to find me quite dashing. And in uniform, they seem utterly fascinated―“
“What is your point?” Alex was practically growling.
“Lady Rose isn’t one of them. In fact she barely looked at me. She could not, however, peel her eyes away from you. Watched you like a hawk, with those rather expressive blue eyes. They make a man want―“
“Enough. And thank you.” Alex returned to the desk, where he was penning a letter to the general of Chris’ outpost. He needed to know Carl’s record, and only someone high up could provide it.
“You’re a lucky man.” Chris slapped him on the back for the second time that day.
Alex gave a curt nod. He didn’t feel lucky at the moment. He was worried. Just because he had decided Rose was the woman for him, didn’t mean she returned the sentiment and a man, a soldier no less, as handsome as Chris set his teeth on edge. He was damn uneasy that her affection would shift to someone else. “Take this to the general. Thank you for your aid. It is most appreciated.”
Chris looked at him. He opened his mouth to speak then closed it again. Taking a breath, his friend finally spoke. “Your scar isn’t that awful, you know. In fact, it gives you an air of danger that many women might find exciting.”
“You know that is not the case,” Alex replied tightly.
“It was not the case for Marissa, but a discerning woman might see right past that mark to the man beneath.”
Alex stopped and turned to his friend then. “That is what Rose said.”
“Did she now? Well, then you really have done well. I’ll understand if you don’t want to share, but what is causing your concern?”
Taming a Duke's Wild Rose: Taming the Heart Series Book 2 Page 6
